Not sure where to begin with your wedding plans?

Many couples aren’t always sure where to start the wedding planning process.  Jumping into the fun stuff, venue, attire, and décor are always alluring. We encourage couples to start with a clear budget. Expenses and incidentals can quickly run away from you if not planned and tracked.  That is why budgeting for your wedding is the first and most important thing to do at the start of your planning process. Sometimes fees and surcharges may be overlooked.  One key example are gratuities and service fees.

Let’s run down the list of usual items to get a better idea of how your money is spent.

• Officiant
• Attire (Hair, Makeup, and Nails)
• Entertainment (Music, Photography, etc.)
• Food (Guests & Vendors)
• Alcohol
• Rentals
• Venues (bride’s room, prep rooms, green rooms, etc.)
• Rings (if you don’t have already)
• Florals
• Accessories / Decoration
• Transportation (If applicable)
• Guest Favors
• Bridal Party Gifts
• Pre-Wedding Parties
• Hotels
• Wedding Planner

Let’s get started. Create a list with three columns and label the first column, “Must-Haves”. The second column will be labeled, “Want but can go without”. Lastly, “Don’t Need”. If you’re savvy with Excel, then go to town and have fun with this exercise. This will be your guide to what you know is a priority to you and your fiancé and help you stay within your budget.